|
|
Selecting Your Attire
|
|
Choosing your wedding dress can be
overwhelming. Before you begin your hunt
for the perfect dress, prepare yourself!
We've listed steps to help you get started and
what to expect from bridal shops. If you
are not sure what style dress will look best on
you, be sure to read about
choosing a wedding gown.
|
|
The bride will be the center of attention as
she walks down the aisle in her wedding dress. The wedding dress will set the level of
formality for both the ceremony and the reception. Therefore, you must leave plenty of
time for shopping because you must complete your shopping before your attendants can begin
theirs.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Choose a bridal shop that has a good reputation. Ask friends and relatives for
referrals. You want and need a bridal retailer who will do whatever they can to ensure
that you are happy. The retailer should be able to handle everything including customizing
the gown, fittings and alterations, accessories and ordering and fitting attendants’
dresses. Check our listing of reputable
Bridal
Shops.
|
|
|
The average cost of a wedding gown is
approximately $800 - $1500. A designer gown can cost you
thousands of dollars. If you decide on a one-of-a-kind wedding gown, plan on paying much
more. The average headpiece can cost you anywhere from $150 - $300. Average cost of shoes:
$50.
|
|
|
Get ideas on different styles by going through bridal magazines. Cut out any styles you
like and show them to the bridal retailer. This way she can show you gowns similar to your
taste. Don’t be afraid to try on many different styles. You may be surprised on how
they actually look on you.
|
|
|
It’s a good idea to bring along a trusting friend or relative while you try on the
gowns. This way they can give you their opinions on what particular style looks best on
you. It’s also a good idea to bring a pair of shoes with the same size heel that you
plan on wearing on your wedding day. Fix your hair the way you are planning on wearing it
at your wedding so you can get the full effect of the gown and headpiece.
|
|
|
You will need to order your gown at least four to eight months in advance. This will
allow time for the manufacturer to make your gown closest to your size. Most bridal styles
are sized smaller than everyday dresses. If you are normally a size 8, don’t be
surprised if you need a size 10 wedding gown. When your gown comes in, allow yourself at
least a month for alterations and fittings. Remember, alterations and fittings cost extra!
|
|
|
|
Make sure you find out the cancellation policy that the store has before you leave a
deposit. Also, be sure to find out how much they charge for alterations.
|
|
|
|
If you are on a tight budget, you may consider renting your gown. You can call your
local formal-wear shop and check out their selection. Another alternative if you are on a
tight budget would be to go to a second-hand shop. You will probably need alterations but
the savings will still be great. You can also have your wedding dress sewn by a
seamstress, friend or yourself. The price of the material and labor costs are often
cheaper than designer gowns.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
